Best way to diagnose cavitation?

[coletrain777]

What is the best way to diagnose the source for cavitation without just R&R'ing parts? The cavitation I have is not extreme, but it is enough to be annoying (especially when attempting to pull up a skier, or quick take off's).

My thoughts are: Check the clearance on the wear rings first; look at the impellers for damage;... then what should be next? I have a factory manual, just thought I would check with folks with real-life experience.

Thanks Cole

 

[LouDoo]

I think you got it, if it's not the wear ring or the impeller the next thing to check is the carbon seal.

Lou

 

[Dr Honda]

Well..... I have a way of checking the carbon ring. (but I don't like to use it all the time) If your pump and impeller are OK... put a dab of waterproof grease on the face if the carbon seal. (between the carbon and stainless rings) If you have a leak there... the grease will cure the prob temperamentally. The problem is... if the seal was good... then the grease will soften the carbon, and cause it to wear pre-mature.

The other way to do it, is to put a couple big zip-ties in the boot. It will (in effect) put more pressure on the carbon seal, and help it seal.

 

[DEADRINGER]

Good tip. I have major damage im fixing on my 95 right no due to sucking rocks through the pump. The rubber seals were blown out so bad one of the shafts was leaking water. Needless to say it was cavitating like a big dog. Maybe I'll through up some pics for you guys to look at.

 

[coletrain777]

Dr. Honda - What do you mean when you say "put a couple of big zip ties in the boot" ? Are you cinching them down inside behind the carbon seal or...?

 

[jsp]

Yes he means in the valleys of the rubber boot,.. but make sure you use the good strong ones.. this will prevent the carbon ring from being sucked back due to suction the pump makes under heavy excelleration.

 

[Dr Honda]

Yep... what JSP said.